Fake Authority Figure: When “Help” Is a Lie and How to Stay Safe

We all want to believe that when we’re lost, stranded, or scared, someone will show up to help. But what happens when that “someone” is a fake authority figure and it’s all a lie?

Two recent news stories are painful reminders that danger doesn’t always come with a warning sign or a creepy vibe. Sometimes, it comes dressed as a fire inspector or a good Samaritan. In both of these cases, young women were approached by men posing as authority figures offering help. They trusted them. They got in the car and they were assaulted.

Story #1 – Posing as a Fire Inspector

In St. Paul, Minnesota, a man allegedly kidnapped a teenage girl by pretending to be a fire inspector. According to reports, The 13 year old girl missed her bus to school and it was raining outside. She saw his uniform and thought he was a security officer. He lured her into his vehicle, telling her he will drive her to school but instead drove her to his home where she was assaulted.

Story #2 – Impersonating Search and Rescue

In California, a woman who had had been hiking encountered a man she believed was part of search and rescue. He told her he would drive her to a nearby trail. Instead, she was kidnapped and sexually and physically assaulted. He had no connection to emergency services, he simply used her fear and vulnerability as an opportunity.

What These Stories Teach Us

In both cases, the victims did what many of us might do: trust someone who seemed like they were there to help. But predators count on that moment of trust. And that’s exactly where we need to shift our thinking. It’s okay to be skeptical. Ask questions. Demand proof. Real professionals won’t hesitate to show identification or call a supervisor.

Never Get in the Car

It’s the single biggest mistake that changes the outcome. Getting into a stranger’s vehicle, no matter how helpful or friendly they seem, removes your control. Once that door shuts, your options shrink drastically. Instead:

• Ask them to call someone on your behalf.
• Wait in a public place.
• Call a trusted friend or use your phone’s emergency SOS features.

Even if they seem official, don’t get in the car! Real professionals will respect your caution.

Authority Doesn’t Mean Safety

Predators count on us to let our guard down around uniforms, badges, and confident behavior. But the truth is, bad people can use good roles to trick you. Always verify. Always question. You’re not being rude, you’re being smart.

Carry Self-Defense Tools

You don’t need to be a black belt or carry a gun to protect yourself. Even something as simple as pepper spray or a knife can make the difference between getting away and being overpowered. But tools only help if you know how and when to use them. So train with them. Practice drawing them quickly. Make them a habit, not just a backup.

A Final Thought:

These victims did nothing wrong. The men who attacked them are the only ones responsible for what happened. But their stories are a powerful reminder that:

Some people who offer help have bad intentions and you have every right to protect yourself.

News sources:

St. Paul fire inspector kidnapped, attempted to sexually assault teen

Hiker sexually assaulted by man impersonating search and rescue official

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual harassment, assault, or violence, help is available. Here are some trusted organizations that offer support and resources:

National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN)
Website: https://www.rainn.org
Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
Services: Offers confidential support, guidance, and connections to local resources.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline
Website: https://www.thehotline.org
Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Text: Text “START” to 88788
Services: Provides support for domestic violence victims and survivors, including safety planning and access to shelters.

Crisis Text Line
Website: https://www.crisistextline.org
Text: Text “HELLO” to 741741
Services: Provides free, 24/7 support for any kind of crisis via text.

Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for more self-defense tips, safety insights, and empowering content tailored to help women walk their path with confidence. Let’s keep the conversation going. Join us today!